A discount supermarket chain has confirmed it is pressing ahead with plans for a new store in north Essex – next to a site abandoned by Tesco.

Aldi is set to submit proposals for a multi-million pound shop at the former Martello Caravan Park in Kirby Road, Walton.

If approved its scheme, which will create up to 50 jobs, would have a sales area of 1,254sqm and a 102-space car park.

Tesco has planning permission for a store and petrol station twice the size next to the proposed Aldi site on the land, but axed its plans for the development last week in the wake of poor trading figures nationally.

Aldi has confirmed it has no plans for the Tesco site.

The discount retailer said it intends to submit a formal planning application to Tendring District Council next month, and if approved has committed to opening the new store in 2016. It will distribute around 4,000 leaflets in the area asking for residents’ views.

Adam Ward, property director at Aldi, said: “We have been keen to open a neighbourhood store in Walton for some time and are delighted to confirm our plans for an award-winning ALDI.

“We know many residents have to travel to do their weekly shopping, including to visit their nearest Aldi, and by opening our doors in Walton I hope will make it easier for people to shop and save.

“We are aware of recent announcements regarding Tesco on the neighbouring site, although this has absolutely no bearing on us. Our neighbourhood store is an entirely different offer and it has always been our intention to invest in Walton, regardless of whether or not there is another foodstore on the neighbouring site.

“People may be aware of our own commitment to investing in the UK in the next few years. In Tendring alone, people will have seen how quickly we built our Clacton store, which I hope gives certainty about our commitment to investing in Walton and delivering this exciting scheme.”

Stephen Sibley, managing director of Martello Land & Properties Ltd, added: “Aldi’s confirmation they are coming to Walton is excellent.

“After the recent Tesco news, we have been contacted by a number of local people who are understandably interested and concerned about future investment in the town.

“Aldi are one of the UK’s fastest growing retailers and the fact such a prestigious company is committed to the site sends a clear message that Walton is open for business.”

Mr Sibley also said house builders Taylor Wimpey had submitted a pre-planning application to Tendring District Council for the 250 home element of the proposed development.